2017 saw a wave of consequential elections around the world, as citizens voted to change their country’s course or express their displeasure. Across Europe, mainstream parties faltered as formerly fringe political forces gained strength. In Hong Kong and South Korea, citizens took to the streets to protest corruption and ruling elites, while Kenya’s chaotic elections contrasted with Angola’s smooth transition from a decades-long regime. And separatist movements in Spain and Iraq used referenda to press their claims to independence. This slideshow recaps the eventful year.